November 7, 2003

Students invited to perform at Carnegie Hall

Conductor Robert Halseth leads the ensemble

The CSUS Symphonic Wind Ensemble has received a coveted invitation to perform at the New York Wind Band Festival’s gala Carnegie Hall concert April 13, one of two collegiate ensembles chosen nationally. The festival is an annual educational event for student musicians that includes workshops, clinics and competitions spread over two, week-long sessions. Each session culminates with a public concert at Carnegie Hall.

“It’s the premier concert hall in the United States,” says ensemble conductor Robert Halseth, also director of wind studies at CSUS. “Tchaikovsky opened it in 1891. Playing there would be a tremendous opportunity for our students.”

Budget constraints have made University funds scarce, and the cost of sending 50 students to New York is significant, no matter how rewarding the experience may be. Members of the ensemble will embark on a fundraising effort focused on the $100,000 needed to attend the festival. “Each student needs $2,000 to go, or they’ll miss out on the experience of a lifetime,” says music department chair Ernie Hills.

Ensemble members are planning fundraising events, contacting potential donors and seeking sponsors to get their group to New York this spring. Playing at Carnegie Hall is something they don’t want to miss.

Donations may be made to the CSUS Trust Foundation, Carnegie Hall Trip at CSUS College of Arts and Letters Development Office, Mariposa Hall 5000, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819-6049 or (916) 278-7673.

For media assistance, contact public affairs at (916) 278-6156.

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